Cancer profiling genomic tests launched
NeoGenomics Inc. (FL, USA), a clinical laboratory specializing in cancer-focused genetic and molecular testing services, recently announced the launch of a series of cancer profiling tests. The NeoTYPE™ Cancer Profiles cover 22 different hematologic and solid cancers, with each test being custom-designed for a specific tumor type.
Scientists developed the technology to identify key driver genes that are central to therapy decisions, prognosis and clinical research. Only 8–18 genes are investigated per patient or tumor type, including brain, lung, breast, stomach and thyroid. The mutations are investigated using multiple techniques, including Sanger sequencing, fluorescent in-situ hybridization and fragment length analysis.
Maher Albitar, NeoGenomic’s Chief Medical Officer and Director of Research and Development, commented, “Classifying cancers based on their morphology and site of origin is no longer adequate for the practice of evidence-based medicine. Our molecular profiling testing is a reliable and concise approach to sub-classifying these tumors based on their underlying driving biology.” Albitar added, “This enables clinicians to better manage and treat their patients.”
Doug VanOort, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NeoGenomics, commented on the practicalities of this new technology, “Precision medicine requires precision testing. Our targeted tests are responsive to the need for both comprehensive testing in complex cases and the need to be cost sensitive for patients and insurance companies. Therefore, we are launching these tests on both a ‘comprehensive’ and a ‘concise’ basis. We believe this flexibility will meet the needs of the scientific community and our clients.”
